www.legionnl.ca 137 The following note from The Colonial Secretary, dated March 16, 1917, was sent to John’s mother to advise her of the tragic news: Dear Madam, It was with extreme regret that the Government learned, through Commander MacDermott, that the Admiralty had advised that your son, John James, was missing and believed drowned, having been seaman on the Trawler VIVANTI which ship has not been heard of since March 7th. Permit me to express to you on behalf of the Government, as well as for myself, the sincerest sympathy in your time of sorrow. We all feel the loss of loved ones, but there is, no doubt, some comfort to you in the thought that he has done his utmost. We are proud of our sailors – there are no men anywhere can beat them, and they came forward loyally at the call of King and Country. We are equally proud of the noble and unselfish fathers and mothers who so readily gave their sons when the call of Duty came. Your brave lad has won his place on the glorious Roll of Honour and his name will be held in fragrant memory by all his fellowcountrymen. When Peace comes again to his earth and the War Flags are furled, in the midst of your sorrow, there will be the thought that your dear boy bore no inconsiderable part in bringing about that much to be desired end. May the Great Father of all give to you his presence and consolation. With my fullest sympathy, Believe me to be, J. R. Bennett Colonial Secretary Remembering John A. James John A. James was born in Forteau, NL. He joined the Merchant Navy during World War One with the Newfoundland I Royal Naval Reserve. He served on the Trawler VIVANTI , which had not been heard from since March 7, 1917. John is presumed to have drowned.
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